Keystone’s dynamic and client-focused team of marine and shipping law specialists offer a full package of marine, shipping and superyacht services. Our global network of firms, surveyors and other experts gives us international capability combined with local knowledge.

Our yacht and superyacht law services

Our marine and shipping lawyers regularly act for individuals and companies negotiating contracts for the build, sale and purchase of yachts up to 100m. We also work with a number of yachting businesses, from banks and yacht brokers to marina owners. We have experience in offshore company structures and have a good network of yachting experts to call upon where needed. Our lawyers can also assist in dispute resolution, either in arbitrations such as LMAA or through the courts.

Our shipping law services

In relation to national and international trade, our lawyers offer a dispute resolution service in respect of cargo and freight claims, whether this involves carriage of goods by sea, air or road, and claims involving warehousing disputes. Our marine and shipping team can also advise in relation to contracts for the carriage of goods.

In the event of a marine casualty, our 24-hour response service enables us to quickly mobilise key individuals in order that crucial evidence is preserved, and an early investigation is achieved. Members of the team include ex-mariners with a wealth of experience in dealing with casualties and investigations.

Who do we advise?

In the yachting and superyacht sector, we advise prospective buyers, owners, banks and marine companies in the leisure sector such as management companies and marinas, crew and charter businesses. Shipping clients include Lloyd’s underwriters, P & I Clubs and individuals.

Why choose our marine and shipping team?

Keystone marine and shipping lawyers are members of several trade associations and federations including the London Maritime Arbitrators Association (LMAA), the British Marine Federation (BMF), the Professional Yachtsmen Association (PYA), the International Superyacht Society, Superyacht UK, and the Association of Brokers and Yacht Agents (ABYA). The Keystone superyacht team has also been recognised as a Captain’s Recommended Service in the latest Superyacht Services Guide.

Leading legal directory The Legal 500 describes the team as having “excellent lawyers in the field of shipping” who are “professional, diligent, well-experienced”. Some of our yachting lawyers are also recognised in Chambers HNW for their advice to high-net-worth individuals.

Our experienced lawyers often host seminars and training for marine organisations including the BMF, the International Institute of Marine Surveyors (IIMS), and the Maritime Training Academy (MTA). They also lecture and examine on the MCA Master Yachts course for aspiring superyacht captains as well as on various courses for marine surveyors and brokers and on marina management courses.

For further information or to discuss a marine, shipping or superyacht matter, please telephone 020 3319 3700 or click here to email us.

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